25 movies coming in 2025 you need to get excited about

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As a die-hard movie enthusiast with over three decades of cinematic adventures under my belt, I must say that 2025 promises to be quite the year for film fanatics like myself! With a diverse array of remakes, adaptations, and original stories on the horizon, it’s hard not to get excited about the upcoming slate.

2024 is almost over, which means it’s time to bid farewell to the past and welcome the future. A fantastic approach to ring in the New Year would be by sharing a list of the upcoming movies in 2025 that have us all thrilled!

That’s no mean feat, some incredible films are s year. Set for release year, with all the superhero movies, action movies, sci-fi films, and horror movies coming, how did we possibly whittle the list down to just 25?

We gathered a council of expert writers from TopMob TV and movies, each proposing their preferred one or two films for the following year. The top-tier TV and movie team then employed sophisticated algorithms to select the films they found most appealing, resulting in a final list of the most anticipated 2025 movie releases.

To clarify, these movies aren’t ranked by preference; they’re listed in the order of their release dates instead. The reason being that we strive to maintain the highest ethical standards and felt it was unfair to rank films we haven’t yet viewed. Moreover, considering the immense anticipation for Avatar 3, it seems James Cameron’s genius is universally recognized, regardless of our hypothetical ranking.

Den of Thieves 2

  • Release date: January 10, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Christian Gudegast 
  • Cast: Gerard Butler, O’Shea Jackson, Meadow Williams 

The main plot revolves around ‘Big Nick’ locating Donnie in Europe, who is preparing for a daring robbery at the biggest global diamond exchange. Instead of making an arrest, Nick has other plans – he aims to join Donnie on this high-stakes operation.

What’s got us pumped: The film “Den of Thieves” has been compared by one reviewer to the movie “Heat,” with an extra boost of energy from Monster drinks. If that doesn’t pique your interest, I pity you. The sequel looks even more promising than the original, offering a larger and louder experience with a surprising twist on the relationship between Big Nick (one of Butler’s top performances) and Donnie. As the man said, he’s “hooked on heists.

Words by Cameron Frew

Wolf Man

  • Release Date: January 17, 2025
  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Leigh Whannell
  • Cast: Julia Garner, Christopher Abbott, Matilda Firth

The Story: Jake receives a rural farmhouse in Oregon’s woods as inheritance, prompting him to move there with his wife and daughter. However, during their journey, an unknown creature ambushes them, pursuing the family to the house and circling around it afterwards. Stranded within the house, Jake undergoes a transformation of his own.

What’s got us pumped: We’re thrilled because Leigh Whannell is involved! Known for creating the chilling worlds of Saw and Insidious, he’s a contemporary maestro of horror. When Whannell reimagined a Universal Monster Movie with The Invisible Man, it became a genuinely terrifying adaptation. Now, he’s returning to that universe, offering a unique twist on the Wolf Man. This new take blends spine-tingling folklore with a cabin in the woods setting, promising an action-packed and frightening experience.

Words by Chris Tilly

Companion

  • Release date: January 31, 2025 
  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Drew Hancock
  • Cast: Sophie Thatcher, Jack Quaid, Lukas Gage

The storyline of “Companion” remains largely unknown at this point, except that it promises to deliver a fresh take on a romantic tale with a horrifying backdrop.

What we’re looking forward to: Despite the secrecy surrounding the plot, the trailer offers enough intrigue. A passionate yet deranged love story starring Sophie Thatcher from Yellowjackets and Jack Quaid from The Boys, with Barbarian director Zach Cregger as producer promises a thrilling, bloody journey. And since it’s set to release around Valentine’s Day, it seems perfect for those who enjoy a darker, more intense romantic experience.

Words by Daisy Phillipson

Captain America: Brave New World 

  • Release date: February 14, 2025
  • Genre: Superhero
  • Director: Julius Onah
  • Cast: Anthony Mackie, Danny Ramirez, Shira Haas, Giancarlo Esposito, Tim Blake Nelson, Harrison Ford

What it’s about: After the newly elected president, Thaddeus Ross, is targeted by dangerous assassins, the new Captain America, Sam Wilson, must investigate who’s behind the attack.

Why we can’t wait: Captain America and The Winter Soldier stands out as one of Marvel’s finest films, setting it apart from those that showcase Earth’s mightiest heroes. In a sense, Brave New World seems to share the same quality. We anticipate the film to deliver classic action-packed moments, intriguing plot twists, and perhaps some unexpected betrayals. What makes this even more exciting is that Anthony Mackie will finally have the chance to show his full potential as Falcon, aiming to win over those Marvel fans who may still be skeptical about his readiness to wield the shield. To top it all off, there’s also the Red Hulk in the mix! If you’re not a member of Hydra, there’s no way you wouldn’t be eagerly awaiting this release.

Words by Tom Percival

Sinners

  • Release date: March 7, 2025 
  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Ryan Coogler
  • Cast: Michael B. Jordan, Hailee Steinfeld, Wunmi Mosaku

The story, Sinners, takes place in the racially segregated American South during the Jim Crow era. Twin siblings Elijah and Elias seek refuge from their turbulent pasts by returning home, but instead discover an ominous presence lurking in their old town.

We’re thrilled because of: Ryan Coogler consistently delivers great films, like Black Panther and Creed, and his upcoming movie seems to be another hit. It’s intriguing that he’s venturing into a completely new genre (particularly horror), and it’s even more exciting to see Michael B. Jordan tackling a fresh role – portraying twin brothers. The Sinners trailer hints at demons and a haunting past, but since Sinners is a vampire movie, maybe Coogler is going to redefine the subgenre.

Words by Daisy Phillipson

The Amateur

  • Release date: April 11, 2025
  • Genre: Thriller/Action
  • Director: James Hawes
  • Cast: Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Laurence Fishburne, Caitriona Balfe

Plot Summary: Inspired by the 1981 novel of the same name, “The Havana Tan,” CIA cryptographer Charles Heller finds himself bereaved following a terrorist attack in London. Determined to bring the perpetrators to justice, he coerces the agency into training him as a field operative for a one-man mission.

What makes us thrilled: Given that the 1981 film version didn’t live up to expectations, The Amateur presents a chance to breathe life into such a cherished tale. It’s been some time since we last saw Rami Malek on our screens, and taking on a tough, determined role might be the ideal way for him to make his comeback. Not only that, but our beloved Outlander co-star Caitriona Balfe is also part of the cast, and she consistently delivers impressive performances in our view.

Words by Jasmine Valentine

Mickey 17

  • Release date: April 18, 2025 
  • Genre: Sci-fi
  • Director: Bong Joon-ho
  • Cast: Robert Pattinson, Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun, Mark Ruffalo

Topic Overview: Mickey 17, derived from Edward Ashton’s novel, chronicles the life of a struggling young man residing in a future setting. This individual decides to become an “expendable,” which signifies his acceptance of a grim fate: repeatedly dying and being reborn.

What makes us thrilled: If you’ve watched the captivating trailer for Mickey 17, just five words are necessary to create a buzz around this highly-awaited masterpiece from Bong Joon-ho: Robert Pattinson’s peculiar little voice. This intriguing and humorous exploration of human existence appears to have given Pattinson the freedom to truly shine, and we can’t wait for it!

Words by Jessica Cullen

The Accountant 2

  • Release date: April 25, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Gavin O’Connor
  • Cast: Ben Affleck, Jon Bernthal, J.K. Simmons, Cynthia Addai-Robinson 

In a Nutshell: Following the murder of her previous supervisor, a treasury agent recruits Christian Wolff, an exceptional accountant with hidden assassin skills, to uncover the culprit. Together with his brother Brax, they provoke some of the most merciless killers in existence.

We’re thrilled for these reasons:

Words by Cameron Frew

Thunderbolts*

  • Release date: May 2, 2025
  • Genre: Superhero
  • Director: Jake Schreier
  • Cast: Florence Pugh, Sebastian Stan, David Harbour, Wyatt Russell, Olga Kurylenko, Wendell Edward Pierce, Hannah John-Kamen

In Summary: A covert operation is assigned to some of the MCU’s most formidable adversaries and morally ambiguous characters, tasked with locating a highly dangerous superhuman known as Bob… surprisingly true.

What makes us thrilled: It’s refreshing that Marvel is finally giving some limelight to its morally complex characters through the Thunderbolts*, a fact we should remember given its importance. The trailers suggest that this film could share a humorous, action-packed tone similar to Guardians of the Galaxy or Suicide Squad, which I find appealing. However, my main enthusiasm for this movie stems from the prospect of seeing more Red Guardian on screen.

Words by Tom Percival

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning 

  • Release date: May 23, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Christopher McQuarrie 
  • Cast: Tom Cruise, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Hayley Atwell

Regarding the continuation: After the suspenseful finale of Dead Reckoning, The Final Reckoning will trace Ethan Hunt’s journey as he joins forces with former adversaries and allies in a quest to uncover the whereabouts of the malevolent AI system called the Entity.

What’s making us thrilled: Dead Reckoning might not have received the recognition it deserved, but there’s no denying it laid an impressive foundation for what could be the most awe-inspiring Mission: Impossible film yet. The movie features a submarine hidden beneath the ocean, a team-up reminiscent of the Avengers with Ethan’s longtime friends, and higher stakes than ever before. Whether this is Tom Cruise’s final portrayal as Ethan Hunt remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: we can’t wait to watch it!

Words by Jessica Cullen

Karate Kid: Legends

  • Release Date: May 30, 2025
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Jonathan Entwistle
  • Cast: Ralph Macchio, Jackie Chan, Ming-Na Wen

Overview: The new Karate Kid film hasn’t revealed its trailer or plot details yet, leaving us with limited information. However, the last season of Cobra Kai explores Mr. Miyagi’s complex past, and it’s likely that this backstory will intertwine with Jackie Chan’s character from the 2010 remake to establish a storyline called Legends. Moreover, Ben Wang is expected to portray a young karate student in search of guidance.

What’s generating our enthusiasm: After being knocked down by the disappointing Karate Kid Part III and The Next Karate Kid, the series miraculously bounced back through a reboot, and was truly resurrected by Cobra Kai in 2018. The popularity of the show opened up the possibility for a new film, and the long-awaited sequel will finally bring together Ralph Macchio’s Karate Kid/Man with Jackie Chan’s Mr. Han – something fans have been eagerly anticipating for years.

Words by Chris Tilly

Ballerina

  • Release date: June 6, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Len Wiseman
  • Cast: Ana de Armas, Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne, Lance Reddick (in his final role) 

In the timeframe between John Wick 3 and 4, the film Ballerina centers around the character of Eve Macarro, a dancer-turned-assassin, as she embarks on a quest to avenge her father’s demise.

Why we’re excited: Who knew that a movie about a man seeking vengeance for his dead dog would turn out to be such a hit? But it has, and that’s why excitement for Ballerina is off the charts. Ana de Armas has already shown her action chops, and she’ll be bringing those to the high-octane flick. While it will expand on the on-screen universe, the core theme will remain at the heart of Ballerina: vengeance, a dish best-served cold. Or, in John Wick’s case, with bone-crunching ultraviolence.

Words by Daisy Phillipson

28 Years Later

  • Release date: June 20
  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Danny Boyle
  • Cast: Cillian Murphy, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes

The story revolves around: It’s been 28 years since the Rage Virus transformed countless individuals in the UK into violent, zombie-like beings, leaving only small groups uninfected. In an attempt to find aid for his ailing mother, a young boy ventures into territories devoid of human life.

We’re thrilled about it: It’s been more than a decade since 28 Weeks Later; we’ve seen countless false trailers and articles in the meantime. Next year, Danny Boyle returns as director for the eagerly anticipated sequel, scripted by Alex Garland, who wrote the original film – widely regarded as one of the greatest horror movies ever made. In essence, this is a significant event.

Words by Cameron Frew

F1

  • Release date: June 27, 2025
  • Genre: Sport
  • Director: Joseph Kosinski
  • Cast: Brad Pitt, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem

Main Topic: After a tragic accident, former Formula 1 race-car driver Sonny Hayes steps away from racing and finds work in other motorsports fields. However, an intriguing offer to mentor newcomer Joshua Pearce in F1 rekindles his interest in the sport.

What’s getting us pumped: Director Joe Kosinski, known for his cinematic brilliance, has previously taken audiences into a digital world (Tron: Legacy) and aerial combat (Top Gun: Maverick). Now, he’s inviting us onto the race track for a movie that might seem like a typical sports film. However, Kosinski filmed during Grand Prix events worldwide using advanced technology, allowing him to capture and recreate the high-speed action of Formula 1 racing so closely that viewers will experience the thrill as if they were actually behind the wheel.

Words by Chris Tilly

Jurassic World: Rebirth

  • Release date: July 2, 2025
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Gareth Edwards
  • Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, Jonathan Bailey

The storyline of Jurassic Park: Rebirth unfolds five years after Dominion’s events, focusing on a crucial element: three massive dinosaurs on Earth who possess the genetic code for a groundbreaking drug. Consequently, an elite task force is covertly deployed to retrieve this precious DNA, which could transform the world as we know it.

What we’re looking forward to: Rebirth, authored by David Koepp known for Jurassic Park, and helmed by Gareth Edwards whose past works include Monsters, Godzilla, Rogue One, and The Creator. This suggests that the series is in capable hands. Furthermore, the intrigue lies in the hint of unexpected events on the horizon, as suggested by the official summary, which alludes to a “dark, startling revelation hidden from the world for decades.

Words by Chris Tilly

Superman 

  • Release date: July 11, 2025
  • Genre: Superhero
  • Director: James Gunn
  • Cast: David Corenswet, Rachel Brosnahan, Isabela Merced, Nicholas Hoult

In a universe populated by superheroes for many years, Superman grapples with the duality of his Kryptonian roots and his everyday life as Clark Kent.

What we’re eager about: Are those wings a bird or a plane? Nope, it’s none other than James Gunn’s interpretation of Superman, and he’s bringing an entire cinematic universe along with him! After Snyder’s dark portrayal of the Man of Steel, we can finally expect a Superman fitting for us, one that is said to be more optimistic and joyful than the neck-straining, red-eyed monster we’ve previously seen. What I’m particularly intrigued about is how Gunn’s quirky and rebellious storytelling approach will blend with the pure-hearted essence of Superman. While I have faith that Gunn will pull it off, it’s easier to imagine a man flying than visualizing what Gunn has in store for Superman’s alter ego, the Kryptonian.

Words by Tom Percival

The Fantastic Four: First Steps

  • Release date: July 25, 2025
  • Genre: Superhero
  • Director: Matt Shakman
  • Cast: Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ralph Ineson

Topic Overview: The renowned superhero squad, the Fantastic Four, confronts a formidable cosmic entity named Galactus, who seeks to consume Earth.

What’s making us thrilled: After nearly seven decades, we’ve been eagerly anticipating a well-crafted adaptation of the Fantastic Four. Apologies if you enjoyed the 2004 film, but I believe that, if you saw it as a child, you may not have fully appreciated its quality. However, with Matt Shakman, the talented director behind WandaVision, at the helm, and an exceptional cast in place, I’m confident they will do justice to Marvel’s First Family, transforming them into the iconic cinematic figures they truly deserve to be.

Regarding Reed, Sue, and their team, I have my personal affection for them, but what really intrigues me is the film’s apparent pursuit of a retro-futuristic style. It’s an appealing aesthetic that seems tailor-made for the Four. Furthermore, the upcoming portrayal of Galactus from the comics, featuring a large purple hat and voiced by the commanding Ralph Ineson, is another exciting aspect.

Words by Tom Percival

Nobody 2

  • Release date: August 15, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Timo Tjahjanto
  • Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Connie Nielsen, Sharon Stone, Christopher Lloyd, RZA 

Main Theme: Having wiped out the Russian mafia, Hutch now seeks peace with his loved ones. Yet, his past continues to haunt him, compelling him to confront a new, formidable adversary.

What we’re looking forward to: Prior to Nobody, Bob Odenkirk was mainly recognized for portraying the lovable yet loathsome neighborhood crook in Breaking Bad. However, he has now transformed into a true tough guy, and with Timo Tjahjanto, the director of The Night Comes For Us and The Shadow Strays, at the helm, Nobody 2 promises an even more intense, gruesome battle for Odenkirk to navigate his way out. “Oh, please open that door.

Words by Cameron Frew

The Conjuring: Last Rites 

  • Release date: September 5, 2025 
  • Genre: Horror
  • Director: Michael Chaves
  • Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ben Hardy 

As a dedicated gamer,

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my eagerness: The Conjuring films have undeniably sparked a passion for horror within countless individuals, and now with The Conjuring: Last Rites, we’re eagerly anticipating another heart-stopping story to round off the series. Although the exact case hasn’t been revealed yet, given the wealth of spine-tingling tales associated with the Warrens, it’s a certainty that goosebumps will be in abundance once more.

Words by Jessica Cullen

Mortal Kombat 2

  • Release date: October 24, 2025 
  • Genre: Action
  • Director: Simon McQuoid
  • Cast: Lewis Tan, Jessica McNamee, Joe Taslim, Hiroyuki Sanada, Karl Urban

The main focus is on these points:

Why we’re excited: Was Mortal Kombat one of the best video game movies ever? No. Was it brilliantly cast, with loyal character design, fascinating worldbuilding, grin-inducing fan service, not to mention an ending with an applause-worthy stinger? Yes! We know the sequel will actually include the titular tournament, and in addition to Cage, it’ll introduce Baraka, Kitana, and (hopefully) Noob Saibot. In other words, it could be a flawless victory. 

Words by Cameron Frew

Predator: Badlands

  • Release Date: November 7, 2025
  • Genre: Sci-Fi
  • Director: Dan Trachtenberg
  • Cast: Elle Fanning

Topic Overview: Currently not much information is available, but it’s clear that the movie “Badlands” takes place on an extraterrestrial planet. Starring Elle Fanning in multiple roles, this film is based on a story intended to make viewers sympathize with the character of the Predator.

What’s making us thrilled: Director Dan Trachtenberg created the best Predator film since the original 1987 franchise installment, and at times, it even surpassed the original. Therefore, we can’t wait to discover where he takes the series next. Additionally, we’re equally eager about the two-part Predator experience coming our way, as Trachtenberg seems to have also filmed another Predator movie concurrently with Badlands, both scheduled for release in 2025.

Words by Chris Tilly

Wicked For Good

  • Release date: November 21, 2025 
  • Genre: Musical 
  • Director: Jon M. Chu
  • Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum 

In Summary: Following Cynthia Erivo’s powerful performance of ‘Defying Gravity,’ the Wicked Witch of the West is now the most pursued figure in Oz. Glinda has been transformed into a good witch by the wizard and Madame Morrible, while Fiyero finds himself stuck between them. To add to the chaos, Dorothy’s house has permanently settled in Munchkinland.

Why I Can’t Contain My Excitement: Hold on tight, fellow fans, just a year remains before we reach the climax of our shared journey! The first part left me utterly spellbound, and I can hardly contain my anticipation for the sequel to be my must-see cinematic experience of 20XX. Wicked is about to plunge into deeper shadows and seamlessly blend with the timeless tale of The Wizard of Oz, promising some intriguing deviations from the original musical score. As I channel my inner RuPaul, let me tell you – I can’t wait to witness this masterpiece unfold!

Words by Jasmine Valentine

The Running Man 

  • Release date: November 21, 2025 
  • Genre: Action/Thriller
  • Director: Edgar Wright
  • Cast: Glen Powell, Josh Brolin, Katy O Brian

Topic Overview: The plot revolves around a reimagined version of the 1987 adaptation based on Stephen King’s work, titled “The Running Man.” This story unfolds in a bleak future society where our protagonist becomes a participant in a ruthless survival game show, pitted against lethal adversaries intent on ending his life.

What’s generating enthusiasm: We are thrilled because we’re witnessing a fresh wave of Stephen King adaptations, and it feels long overdue! Among them, “The Running Man” is particularly promising, with rising star Glen Powell taking on the role originally played by Arnold Schwarzenegger. This new adaptation is expected to bring a refreshing, charming twist to the dystopia genre.

Words by Jessica Cullen

Avatar: Fire and Ash 

  • Release date: December 19, 2025 
  • Genre: Sci-fi 
  • Director: James Cameron 
  • Cast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang

In a Nutshell: The conflict between humans and the Na’vi reaches new heights, forcing Sully and his kin to cross paths once again with Quaritch (whose bond with Spider becomes even more intricate) and the ominous aspects of Pandora, including a formidable volcanic tribe.

Why we’re looking forward to it: In 2009, James Cameron brought us an unparalleled spectacle since the dawn of the new millennium. Now, in 2022, he’s done it once more. I don’t know how many times I need to say it, but you shouldn’t bet against this self-styled ruler of the world. While some critics pretend not to notice, I’ll be there for Avatar 3 – a surefire blockbuster and cultural sensation that’s bound to make waves.

Guillermo Del Toro’s Frankenstein

  • Release date: TBD 2025 
  • Genre: Horror/Drama
  • Director: Guillermo del Toro
  • Cast: Jacob Elordi, Mia Goth, Oscar Isaac, Christopher Waltz, Charles Dance 

The subject: A reimagining by Del Toro of Mary Shelley’s 1818 horror masterpiece, “Frankenstein”. This new take follows Dr. Pretorius as he searches for the monster created by Dr. Victor Frankenstein, who was thought to have perished in a fire 40 years earlier.

What has us eager: While details are still scarce… it’s Guillermo del Toro we’re talking about here! From his take on Pan’s Labyrinth to Pinocchio, the man specializes in the peculiar. It seems to be an inherent part of him. Typically, there are numerous arguments against reinterpretations of stories we’ve grown familiar with, but Del Toro might just buck that trend.

Words by Jasmine Valentine

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2024-12-26 18:52